Festivals of a Native People of Odisha
A festival is a dynamic cultural or social event that unites
communities in celebrating specific traditions or themes. Festivals intertwine
organized activities, rituals, performances, and gatherings, fostering an
atmosphere of unity and joy. They transcend mere beliefs or myths, showcasing
shared values and historical events. Through festivals, cultural heritage is
preserved, social bonds are fortified, and everyday routines are momentarily
set aside for jubilation.
Exploring Gadaba Festivals
Step into the world of the Gadaba people, who migrated from
the Godavari river belt to Orissa and Andhra Pradesh around 300 to 400 years
ago, and encountered their rich festival traditions. With an estimated population
of 60,000, Gadaba individuals reside across both states. Distinct linguistic
groups—Ollar Gadaba, Mudhili Gadaba, and Gutob Gadaba—share cultural practices
while retaining linguistic variations.
The Ollar Gadaba, nestled near the Andhra Pradesh border in
Koraput, Orissa, offers a unique landscape. The surroundings boast gently
sloping hills, winding roads, and remnants of deforestation, contrasting with
sporadic trees and government plantations. In villages like Pandriguda,
comprising 30 to 80 houses and 150 to 300 people, the Gadaba way of life
unfolds.
A Year of
Celebrations
The Gadaba people revel in a festival-rich lifestyle,
celebrating 12 festivals throughout the year, each tied to seasons and village
life. "Karke Paroop," the mango-focused first fruit festival, stands
as a testament to this vibrant tapestry. Notably, mangoes are tasted only after
this seven to eight-day celebration.
The Heart of Gadaba
Festivals
Festivals constitute the heart of Gadaba life. Each season
and village facet is honored through song, dance, merrymaking, and rituals.
"Kuse Paroop," in January, sees offerings of new paddy and harvested
vegetables to cattle. "Nandee Paroop," following in February,
celebrates blessings from the female clan spirit.
A Symphony of Seasons
"Kardil Vatpondi Paroop," marking the transition
from February to March, coincides with the harvest of tuvar dhal. The arrival
of March signals "Karke Paroop," intertwining the joy of mango
plucking with communal dining and hunting.
As the monsoon approaches, "Bowda Paroop" sees
villagers crafting raincoats from leaves. November's "Diyali Paroop"
pays homage to the goddess Mahalaxmi through buffalo or bull sacrifices.
"Jone Punnet Paroop," in July, appreciates the maize harvest with
household chicken offerings.
An Ode to Harvests
"Varees Punnet Paroop" in September celebrates
freshly harvested paddy, paired with newly harvested pumpkins. October brings
"Dasare," akin to Durga Puja. However, December's "Balee
Paroop" is not of Gadaba origin, and involves sand-related festivities.
Welcome to
Pandriguda, an enchanting tribal village nestled in Orissa, located 40 km from
the district capital, Koraput. This bustling hamlet is currently immersed in a
festive atmosphere, as the Gadaba people celebrate one of their 12 annual
festivals, each closely tied to the changing seasons. This vibrant occasion is
Karke Paroop, the inaugural mango fruit festival, marking the time when the
succulent mangoes are finally ready to be plucked and savored. This week-long
celebration culminates in a grand revelry lasting seven to eight days.
The
festivities commence with a day of reprieve, during which all chores and tasks
must be concluded before this period of rest. Any labor carried out either
within the village or its vicinity on this day incurs a penalty, the severity
of which is determined by the village council. As the sun sets, a sumptuous
dinner is prepared by select families, organized by clan or neighborhood
affiliations. The highlight of this meal is rice paired with the season's
initial harvest of mangoes.
With the
dawn of the following day, jubilation sweeps through the village, as men and
women gather to participate in spirited singing, dancing, or observing the
merriment. This collective revelry is accompanied by rhythmic drumming and the
distinctive tradition of linked hand movements.
The third-day ushers in playful hunts for the village's children. This serves as both an
entertaining pastime for the young and a warm-up for the elder men before their
own hunting expedition. Subsequently, the experienced men embark on a hunting
excursion, continuing until they successfully capture an animal. Wild pigs are
typically the sought-after prey. Triumph in the hunt is celebrated with
exuberant festivities. Although alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking are
common practices among both men and women, dancing while bearing the head of
the hunted pig symbolizes joy and triumph.
In
Pandriguda, this day marks the third day of the festival. As I framed a
snapshot, the procession momentarily paused. The young boys participating in
the procession were meant to represent the hunted quarry—a sparrow and a rat.
Although a squirrel or a desirable bird would have been preferred,
circumstances dictated that a rat would suffice.
As the
procession advances towards the village center and its sacred altar, the entire
community gathers beneath the shelter of a grand tree. Elderly women stand
ready to receive the youthful hunters, each offered a token of welcome—a dab of
moist rice on the forehead and a delicate flower tucked behind the ear.
Personally, I too received this gracious greeting, owing to my status as a
guest, accompanied by my guide and host family who are warmly embraced by the
village. The creatures captured during the hunt will be cooked over an open
flame and shared amongst the villagers.
As dusk
descended, my companions and I embarked on a guided exploration of the village.
Most inhabitants were within their homes, while some women drew water from the
well. They meticulously fetched sufficient water for household use and men's
bathing. Clusters of women gathered near certain residences, all indulging in
homemade rice-based spirits.
Returning to
our lodgings, we resumed our conversations over cups of tea. However, the
tranquility was interrupted by a growing commotion. A procession was departing
the village, destined for another ceremonial puja (worship). Hastening through
our final sips of tea, we joined the throng.
As the sun
dipped beyond the hills, shepherds guided their flocks back to the village.
Just like every aspect of life in the village, tending to sheep and cattle was
a collective effort. Responsibilities were shared, including the rotation of
grazing duties. Additionally, hired hands were employed to oversee the herds
throughout the year, in exchange for a set fee. The animals streamed through
the village en route to their designated shelters, signaling the close of yet
another day. With nightfall settling, the time for sustenance, refreshment, and
repose had arrived.
With
darkness enveloping Pandriguda, the village slipped into tranquility. Absent
were the glow of streetlights, as electricity remained absent from this corner
of the world.
Daylight
emerged around 5:30 AM, prompting villagers to venture into the countryside,
each armed with a neem tree branch-fashioned toothbrush, held between their
lips. The village elder, referred to as Naik, still slumbered in the front
yard, his form cloaked in a nearby blanket.
Naik's wife,
Murthal, found solace near an outdoor fire, seeking warmth. Once more, the
village women congregated at the well, retrieving water for daily needs. A
group of young men emerged from a village corner, two clutching hens—one white
and the other black. Their destination was Naik's brother's residence, where it
seemed a quarrel had ensued the previous night following a hearty festive indulgence.
During this season, disputes and altercations were forbidden, with the common
punishment being the contribution of a chicken. When leaders themselves erred,
their peers ensured compliance.
Arriving at
Naik's abode, the young men sought to retrieve the fourth hen, now joined by
the third hen. Swiftly, a resourceful young woman released the hens from their
enclosure.
Amidst
claims, justifications, and debates, an elderly woman known as Murthal, who
struggled to maintain an upright posture, joined the chase. Nonetheless, the
determined youths succeeded in securing one chicken. Soon, the four hens would
be prepared and shared throughout the village. While disagreements and
conflicts might arise, grudges were unheard of. The bond of community held sway,
promoting mutual love, respect, and unity. These festive occasions allowed them
to revel in each other's company.
The village
elders had resolved to postpone hunting until the following day, as they had
plans to venture deep into a distant forest. Our time in the village was also
drawing to a close. As we readied to depart, a group of women approached each
bearing a garland—a gesture of welcome, joy, and acceptance. Customarily, a
monetary gift was exchanged. As I posed for a group photograph, a token of my
appreciation for their hospitality and affection, I regretted not being able to
extend my stay or converse in their language.
The Gadaba festivals extend a compelling invitation to
explore their realm. Captivating and illuminating, these celebrations beckon us
to immerse ourselves in their world. At their essence lies resilience, unity,
and an innate harmony with nature—qualities that transcend cultural borders. As
we engage with their customs, we unravel the intricate threads of their
tapestry, paying homage to a community that dances in sync with the rhythms of
the land. This purposeful engagement through learning not only honors the
Gadaba people and their festivals but also becomes a conduit for meaningful
connection. Without delving into their culture, festivals, and faith, our
understanding remains incomplete, hindering our ability to connect meaningfully
with them, intercede, or advocate for them effectively.
cryptic:
To delve deeper into the world of the Ollar Gadaba people, their beliefs, and practices, turn to "Trekking the Tribal Trail" by Philipose Vaidyar. This digital book offers an insightful journey into the vibrant embroidery of Gadaba culture and festivities.
https://sites.google.com/view/focusonpeople/new-release?authuser=0
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